But Ryan left. Erica said, “My husband put duty first before family and I understand.”

Ryan, who graduated from the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) in 2006, loved being a policeman. He even dressed his toddler daughter in tiny versions of his PNP uniforms.

To the rest of the country, Ryan is a policeman and a hero. But to the people who loved him, he was Rye, a cherished husband, father, son, brother, cousin, uncle, friend.

“Kuya Rye! Thank you for defending the country and its citizens. We will miss you!” one of his cousins wrote on Facebook.

His sister Ray-Anne posted a photo of the book “Conquerors” and shared, “Remember this book, Kuya Rye? You gave me this book after you graduated [from] PNPA. All the leaders mentioned here are more than conquerors. Bro, you and your troops are more than conquerors! More than what they called elite commandos! More than heroes! You are all armies of God sent here from Heaven to protect the lives of the innocents…”

That book is now on an altar in their family home in General Santos City. In the center is a crucifix and a rosary, and spread around them are pictures of Ryan, other books, messages and pieces of his life of service.

Erica said, “My husband gave his life to claim peace. He placed service to the people before anything else.”

2. Police Senior Inspector John Garry Alcantara Erana

Senior Insp. John Garry Alcantara Erana’s sister really wanted him to be at her wedding.

So earlier this month, when he told her his training in the United States would coincide with her special day, she decided to move it.

Garry’s sister’s wedding wasn’t the only one the Erana family was looking forward to.

Garry, who graduated from the Philippine National Police Academy as Baron of Class 2009, believed in the importance of education. He was a man of ambition and his dreams weren’t just his own. Wanting to secure a good future for him, his bride-to-be and their future family, he helped finance Suzette’s studies in New Zealand, where she is taking a business course. He was pursuing his doctorate at the time of his death.

One of Garry’s siblings – who call him John – wrote on Facebook: “We are so proud of you Kuya! Always! And you never fail to surprise us with your feats. Hindi ko alam na ganyan na kadami awards mo. Love youuuu!”

And: “You always inspire us by how you live and view life. I always look up to you, Kuya. And always will.”

Margaret created a Facebook album as a tribute to Garry. She called it, “My dear Captain, my dear best friend, my dear brother.”

Another sibling posted a photo of their family at the Great Wall of China with the caption: “I can’t imagine our next fam trip.”

3. Police Senior Inspector Max Jim Ramirez Tria

Max Jim Ramirez Tria, nicknamed Mac-mac by his family, was the only one among five sons to follow in his father’s footsteps as a policeman.

Even before joining the SAF, Tria had attained top honors in sniper school, commando and scout ranger training, and in handling explosives and ordinance.

Tria entered the Philippine National Police Academy right after graduation from the CSU Laboratory Schools and came out one of the youngest graduates.

He had four brothers, the eldest of whom had asked him to be the best man in his wedding to a policewoman this May 18.

Mac-mac’s youngest brother Guio posted on his Facebook page a photo of them together on the slain soldier’s graduation day in Zamboanga.

“Kuya Mac, I won’t forget what you said to me once over drinks at home. You told me, “Bam, should anyone hurt this family, a house will explode.” But now, our hearts seem to be the ones exploding because you are no longer with us, because we can no longer be with you. We will never forget you. This is my brother and I love him.”

Guio said on Facebook that his Kuya Mac was “one of the bravest men I had in my life” and fiercely protective of their family.

“Kuya Mac, I won’t forget what you said to me once over drinks at home. You told me, “Bam, should anyone hurt this family, a house will explode.” But now, our hearts seem to be the ones exploding because you are no longer with us, because we can no longer be with you. We will never forget you,” Guio wrote.

Tria was close to Senior Inspectors Ryan Pabalinas, John Garry Erana and Joey Gamutan, also among the 44 slain.

4. Police Senior Insp. Cyrus Paleyan Anniban

Senior Insp. Cyrus Anniban of Balbalan, Kalinga province, was part of the Philippine National Police Academy’s (PNPA) Class of 2010.

Described by many as humble, Cyrus was a born leader — he was a boy scout troop leader, he was a high school CAT officer, he was company commander of his PNPA class.

His family members, friends, former teachers and classmates have expressed their sorrow over his death. Some of them wear shirts printed with his face, his batchmates at Saint William’s Academy welcomed him back to their hometown with a banner.

A comrade wrote: “TO PSI Cyrus Anniban, my bunkie, sir, you told me that you will wait for me. You told me that you will always be on my side. I salute you, sir, for your heroic act. I’ll always remember our brotherhood, sir. You and I will meet again…”

His loved ones have set up “Cyrus Anniban – Our Hero,” a Facebook page dedicated to him, where people have been sharing photos and tributes.

Another page posted a tribute to Cyrus: “He is, indeed, a fine example of a hero who fought for an abstract principle of loyalty, duty and honor. He stood and died fighting. A real warrior…”

Cyrus was a veteran of the Zamboanga City siege.

5. Police Senior Inspector Gednat G. Tabdi

Senior Insp. Gednat Tabdi, 27, hails from Mountain Province and was part of the Philippine National Police Academy’s Kapit-Bisig Class of 2009. At 17, he made the leap from studying veterinary medicine to enrolling at the police academy. He was 21 when he graduated.

In 2012, Joey shared a photo from the Facebook page The PNP Families Behind the Badge. It had this caption: “There is a strong bond in the line of combat.. freedom is not free, we are ready to lay our life for others to live.”

7. Police Senior Inspector Rennie Lumasag Tayrus

Senior Insp. Rennie Tayrus, who hails from Zamboanga del Sur province, relished being a policeman, even if it meant being deployed on his birthday.

His father did not live long enough to see him graduate from the Philippine National Police Academy in 2011 — he passed away the year before. But Rennie’s other family members were there to celebrate with him.

Rennie found another family in the members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF). Last September, he posted a photo of his troop on Facebook with the caption: “Not all brothers have the same last name!”

He chronicled his life with photographs — his journey from cadet to senior inspector, his neatly folded uniforms and his polished boots, the awards he won at the PNP-SAF Challenge 2013.

Rennie loved inspirational quotes, sharing them regularly with his friends.

On Jan. 2, he posted a photo from the Rosenberg Police Department showing a policeman with the words: “Parents, please stop telling your children that we will haul them off to jail if they are bad. We want them to run to us if they are scared… not be scared of us.”

When he was a cadet, Rennie kept a figurine of a knight in his locker — a symbol of valor, courage and honor, values that he lived by.

His cousins have paid tribute to their beloved Kuya Renren online:

“Isa kang hero… We (are) proud of you.”

“Mahal na mahal ka namin di ka namin makakalimutan…”

8. Senior Police Officer 1 Lover L. Inocencio

SPO1 Lover Inocencio of Davao del Norte province was a family man. He spent the holidays with his wife Liezl and their only child, who turned 5 two days before Christmas.

The 38-year-old served the country for 13 years, joining the Philippine National Police in 2002.

He received a medal for his participation in the Zamboanga City siege.

9. Police Officer 3 Rodrigo F. Acob Jr.

Until his death, Rodrigo Acob Jr. was a police officer through and through. Rodrigo, who grew up in Aurora, Isabela province, graduated from Philippine College of Criminology in 2000 and joined the SAF a year later.

On Facebook, his profile picture is the badge of the Philippine National Police with the words, “Not everyone is given this privilege… to serve and protect. This is the reason for our being… It is the lifeblood of our character… The badge of winning your heart and mind. Of this we are proud.”

He may be tough on the field but at home, out of his uniform, he was a loving father who showered his children with affection. There are so many photos of Rodrigo with his arm around his son and carrying his young daughter.

Rordigo spent the holiday season making memories with the people he loved: going to the mall with his wife and kids, celebrating Christmas with his extended family, watching his daughter compete in a kiddie pageant, singing karaoke at a New Year’s celebration.

They are still reeling from the news of his death.

His wife wrote on Facebook in response to a relative: “…ang aga naman niya akong iniwan.”

Originally from Gutalac, Zamboanga del Norte province, he graduated from Gutalac National High School and Andres Bonifacio College.

A relative posted this tribute to him on Facebook:

“Thank your being a good uncle… Thank you for being a good brother-in-law… Thank you for always being there in times of our problems… We are very proud of you… We love you… Farewell, Jun… Hanggang sa muling pagkikita…”

He leaves behind a wife and a 7-year-old child.

13. Police Officer 3 Noel Onangey Golocan

PO3 Noel Golocan, 34, will be remembered by relatives for his “smiling face”; his wife Angeli has up a profile photo with him on her Facebook page.

Noel graduated high school in 1998 from Lepanto National High School in Mankayan, Benguet province. He continued his studies at University of the Cordilleras in Baguio City before joining the Special Action Force.

His cousin Megan Abad shared on Facebook a video in tribute to Noel. The video compiled photos of Noel – most of them with his fellow officers of the Philippine National Police Special Armed Forces – set to the song “Heaven Was Needing A Hero” by Jo Dee Messina.

In December and January, Jun used William Ernest Henley’s Invictus as his cover photo:

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

A cousin posted this tribute: “You may rest in peace, cousin. Thank you for your service to our country.”

15. Police Officer 3 Jedz-in Abubakar Asjali

PO3 Jedz-in Asjali and his family lost their home in the Zamboanga City siege last year; they had to evacuate. But that didn’t stop Jedz from serving the country.

Originally from Western Mindanao University, the 38-year-old joined the Philippine National Police (PNP) in 2002.

Jedz was the breadwinner of the family. He had four siblings, including a younger brother Ibrahim who wanted to join him in the PNP Special Action Force. His mother told Bombo Radyo that the last time he left their home, he gave her a kiss and told her not to be sad, that he would be back because he still needed to get married.

Friends and family members, still in disbelief over the news of his death, continue to flood his Facebook with wishes for him to “rest in peace.” They want answers, they want justice.

On that same page is a photo of Jedz from his training in Virginia in 2013. His arms were outstretched and there was a huge smile on his face as snow fell around him. He looked carefree.

16. Police Officer 3 Robert Dommolog Allaga

Robert Allaga, 35, joined the Philippine National Police in 2005. He was from Banaue, Ifugao province.

His remains were laid to rest beside the Allaga family’s ancestral house in Sitio Patok, Barangay Poitan. Pallbearers had to use an “allasiw” or “batawil” (bamboo cradle) to carry his flag-draped coffin to the remote area.

17. Police Officer 3 John Lloyd Rebamonte Sumbilla

Thirty-three-year-old PO3 John Lloyd Sumbilla had always wanted to die in battle.

PO2 Amman Misuari Esmula, 34, became active in the Philippine National Police Special Action Force in 2006. He was from Zamboanga City and a graduate of Western Mindanao State University.

He leaves behind his wife Elisa and their five children.

At the necrological service at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig, she told Agence France-Presse that she could not take the combat medal from President Aquino: “”My head was spinning. I was confused. I still can’t believe what happened to my husband.”

19. Police Officer 2 Peterson I. Carap

PO2 Peterson Carap, 36 and from Benguet province, joined the Philippine National Police in 2007.

Peterson’s wife Janet and Solomon Agayso, Peterson’s classmate and teammate who survived the bloody encounter, told GMA about Peterson’s last moments of heroism.

Although pained by his death, Janet is trying to come to terms with the choices he made in his last hours: “Sabi daw niya sa isa, i-cover mo ako, pupunta ako sa baba kasi kawawa sila dun… Dun siya nadali…”

She’s asking for justice for her husband and the rest of the #SAF44. Watch the video here.

When Interior Secretary Mar Roxas visited Peterson’s wake at Barangay Irisan in Baguio City, he handed two checks to the widowed Janet. She accepted them but made sure to tell the secretary what was exactly on her mind.

“His father was able to really influence him,” Ellen said, even if the idea worried her; she and her husband always talked about the dangers of being part of the Philippine National Police.

Roger himself had always wanted to be a policeman. Like father, like son.

Two of Roger’s siblings are also soldiers. Roger’s father Herminio said that while it pained him to see his son lying in a body bag instead of standing, alive and safe, he was proud that Roger died fighting.

The video, which has been shared close to 7,000 times, is set to the song “Kawal ang Tatay Ko” and shows Nicky in his PNP and SAF uniforms, on a boat, by a plane, in the jungle, at work. There are photos from his personal life too: Nicky at Jollibee, pre-nup pictures, a date with his wife, scenes from his wedding, his child’s baptism. In the last photo, Nicky isn’t holding a gun. He’s holding his bride’s wedding bouquet.

Nicky, who is from San Luis, Aurora province, liked sending flowers to Roselle while he was away on deployment. She shared a photo of one of the bouquets online with this caption: “Hindi hadlang ang layo at distansya para iparamdam sa taong minamahal kung gaano siya kaimportante…”

His aunt Myrna told Inquirer about how he came to the aid of relatives who were affected by Typhoon Yolanda, checking on them and bringing relief goods.

She called him “a loving nephew who served as a role model for his cousins.”

A friend posted this tribute on Facebook: “A real hero From Dulag Leyte..PO2 Glenn Bedua..he was a man of few words but full of actions..a good friend, a responsible father and an extraordinary law enforcer..My snappy salute…”

Adelisa said, “All he wanted was to serve the country and protect the people but his life was taken too soon. Now I don’t know that to do.”

23. Police Officer 2 Chum Goc-ong Agabon

There’s a picture of PO2 Chum Agabon holding a cake on Facebook. On the cake, written in blue icing, are the words “Smile tol Chum!”

“Who would have thought this would be your last birthday cake?” a friend wrote.

Chum, who hails from Iligan City, was only 31 when he lost his life.

There are many things Chum could have written in the work section of his Facebook profile: Police officer. SAF. Elite commando. Black beret. But instead, he wrote “Peacemaker.”

Chum had been trying help keep peace in the country since 2009 when he joined the Philippine National Police. He received a Medal of Valor for his participation in the arrest of Abu Sayyaf member Yatim Batah (Yatin Hakimin).

One of Chum’s friends wrote: “They did not know how to fill their empty stomach while our tables (were) full of blessings… They were holding their guns while we were busy with our gadgets… They were awake when we were sleeping in peace… JUSTICE is what we seek!”

Tributes continue to pour in from friends and family members. There’s a video memorial dedicated to Chum—pictures of Chum’s smiling face, Chum and his family, Chum with friends, Chum sightseeing around the Philippines, Chum in his uniform.

There are words too, loving words: “Someone as special as you will never be forgotten… You are forever remembered, forever missed… We will always cherish the beautiful memories of you… We love you Chum.”

His name says it all. Chum—a buddy, a friend.

And as his friends wrote, “There is no great love than to lay down one’s life for friends.”

PO2 Noel Balaca, 27 and a native of Oras, Eastern Samar province, would also be remembered for his beautiful voice.

This his classmate from Philippine College of Criminology – after which he passed the Criminology Licensure Examination in 2010 – made sure to mention in a Facebook post she shared to groups dedicated to the 44 slain soldiers.

Noel was also good friends with PO2 Rodel Ramacula. Their multiple photos during and beyond training camps filled the Facebook feeds of their fellow classmates. They were also classmates with Police Officers 1 Windel Candano, Angel Kodiamat and Mark Lory Clemencio. Together, they belonged to “Mabikas” Class of 2010.

“To me, he was a very nice guy … always had a smile, and he loved his family,” recounted an uncle on Facebook.

“Siya kasi talaga ang inaasahan ng family niya (He’s really the one his family relies on),” his aunt also posted.

Noel was also a huge fan of Christian evangelist Nick Vujicic, if his Facebook account is any indication. The 30-something policeman had liked three fan pages dedicated to Vujicic, a motivational speaker born without arms and legs.

26. Police Officer 2 Joel Bimidang Dulnuan

PO2 Joel Dulnuan did not let obstacles get in his way.

In his desire to finish his degree in BS Criminology at University of the Cordilleras, he worked hard, first as a janitor and then a crew member at a fast food joint, according to the Philippine News Agency.

His sister Corazon is even more determined to pursue her dream of joining the PNP in honor of her brother. Joel has also inspired many from his village to become either a police officer or soldier, even out of school youth and the unemployed.

Family, friends and neighbors expressed messages of love and mourning at Joel’s burial and online.

“Saludo kami sa’yo, bayani ng bayan,” one sign read.

A friend wrote on Facebook: “Memories will remain and be cherished forever… ISA KANG TUNAY NA TAGALIGTAS!”

27. Police Officer 2 Godofredo Basak Cabanlet

PO2 Godofredo Cabanlet – a native of Lanao del Norte province – joined the Philippine National Police in 2008 after graduating with a degree in BS Criminology from Misamis University. He was proud to be part of the SAF. He loved his job so much that he used his Tagaligtas patch as his Facebook profile picture.

But then he discovered a new role that he loved even more: father.

Godofredo changed his profile picture to a photo of his beautiful baby daughter.

She was born months after he got married in November 2013 and when he was away on deployment, he kept track of his daughter’s growth on Facebook, looking at her pictures and commenting on how cute and jolly she is.

Godofredo was only 33 when he was killed in the Mamasapano operation.

The country lost a good man. A young girl lost a father.

28. Police Officer 2 Franklin Cadap Danao

“Second New Year’s Eve together,” she wrote on Facebook last December. She had no idea it would be their last.

Many hearts were broken on Jan. 25, the day of the bloody Mamapasano operation. One of them was Kathy’s, the girlfriend of PO2 Franklin Danao.

She had been waiting for him to return so they could celebrate his birthday and their anniversary as he had promised. Instead, she received bad news.

Franklin, originally from Tinoc, Ifugao province, joined the Philippine National Police Special Action Force in 2008. He was a veteran of the Zamboanga City siege and a recipient of a Medal of Heroism for his courage and gallantry in action.

There are photos of Kathy at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, touching Franklin’s coffin, the glass separating her hand and the uniform he wore proudly.

She uploaded a folder of their pictures on Facebook, two years’ worth of memories—their numerous dates, kissing each other’s cheeks, his arms around her waist or shoulders, the cake he gave her on her birthday. It read: “Happy birthday Honey Kath — Frank.“

“Thank you for the love, care and support my love, I’ll cherish every moment spent with you…,” she wrote.

Kathy isn’t the only one grieving the loss of Franklin. There has been an outpouring of love for him from family members, friends, old schoolmates, even strangers.

A cousin posted: “It’s so soon, fast and shocking… you will remain in our hearts as a kind, loving, thoughtful, compassionate cousin, brother, son, nephew, uncle to all of us…”

“Forever in my heart,” Kathy wrote.

29. Police Officer 2 Walner Faustino Danao

Online, PO2 Walner Danao and his wife make no secret their love and adoration for their daughter Juliana Elize.

The names on both their Facebook accounts have been changed to include her name, their walls littered with Juliana Elize’s chubby cheeks and smiling face.

Walner, who originally hailed from Belance, Nueva Vizcaya province, graduated from University of the Cordilleras in Baguio City.

His mother Angie shared her disbelief and hurt on Facebook, “To our beloved son, Walner Danao, it’s painful to think that at your young age you’ve gone, we love you so much. You lost your life for the love of your country. My God give us courage to face this painful moment.”

Family, friends and other mourners paid their last respects to Jerry via prayers, song and dance, and personal stories in La Trinidad, Benguet province. GMA’s Unang Hirit reported that his face was covered with his uniform inside the casket to hide the wounds inflicted on his head.

Jerry was laid to rest at the local cemetery in his hometown, Barangay Tawang.

He passed the Criminologist Licensure Examination in 2008.

31. Police Officer 2 Noble Sungay Kiangan

PO2 Noble Kiangan was the lone bomb expert among the 44 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force that went to Mamasapano, Maguindanao province.

That same day, Buk – Ephraim’s nickname – was killed along with 43 others in Mamasapano, Maguindanao province, during a mission to hunt down one of the world’s most dangerous terrorists.

The last time he saw his family was in December last year during a weeklong vacation.

His sister Lovely posted on Buk’s Facebook wall on Jan. 26, seemingly unaware of what had transpired. “Here we go again. After the Zamboanga incident, it’s Maguindanao now. Father, may you always watch over Kuya Ephraim and our whole family. Be safe, Kuya. I love you!” she posted in Filipino.

On Jan. 30, she wrote, “My Kuya, I love you very, very, very much! We will see each other again in heaven.”

Buk, a native of San Nicholas, Pangasinan province, joined the Philippine National Police Special Action Force in 2008.

Buk leaves behind Miya and their 2-year-old daughter. He had always wanted to build a house for the three of them in Barangay Calaocan.

Omar leaves behind a wife, PO2 Gae Ann Guiniling – who is also a member of the SAF – and a brother determined to finish his police education.

“Despite what happened to my brother, I will continue my police education and become an officer like him,” younger brother Ezar said.

Omar was awarded on Sept. 13, 2014, a Medal of Heroism, which is earned from an act of heroism not involving conflict with an armed enemy. He was also one of the soldiers who defended Zamboanga City during the 2013 siege.

34. Police Officer 2 Rodel Eva Ramacula

PO2 Rodel Ramacula – a native of Rosario, Northern Samar province – was good friends with PO2 Noel Balaca, his classmate at police academy, from which they graduated in 2010. Their multiple photos during and beyond training camps filled the Facebook feeds of their fellow classmates.

Among his accomplishments as a member of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force was a Medal of Merit – dated Oct. 1, 2013 – for “his meritorious and invaluable services rendered as member of the SAF.” He was also one of the soldiers who defended Zamboanga City during the siege on Sept. 9, 2013.

Another classmate of Rodel’s on Facebook shared how she, too, was close to the slain soldier, even making plans to see each other during the latter’s vacation.

Rodel and Noel were also classmates with Police Officers 1 Windel Candano, Angel Kodiamat and Mark Lory Clemencio. Together, they belonged to “Mabikas” Class of 2010.

35. Police Officer 2 Romeo Valles Senin II

PO2 Romeo Senin II died a hero.

This his sister Rose Keidy Senin says again and again on her Facebook account. #MyHero, she says. A hero indeed, she repeats.

Rose will miss, among many other memories of her older brother, their yearly “kakulitan” when she’d go home every December, her Kuya Romeo’s arm draped on her shoulders when together, the laughter whenever she was mistaken for his wife or girlfriend.

“I wanna tell the whole world how proud i am to be your sister.. you are our HERO!” Rose reposts.

Romeo – or Romed, as his name appeared on his Facebook account, often used photos of his wife Edelyn as his profile and cover photos. He last updated his profile picture on Jan. 19, six days before his death, with one that had the phrase, “Live well, laugh often, love much…”

Edelyn keeps as her profile picture a photo of her and her husband, all smiles. On Jan. 22, Edelyn had used as her cover photo a quote, “I’m happy with MY LIFE and I would not let anyone RUIN it.” She changed it two days later.

PO1 Windel Candano – a native of Dumanjug, Cebu province – will be remembered as a man who left no soldier behind on the battlefield.

Days after the deadly clash at Mamasapano, Maguindanao province, surviving members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) spoke highly of the trained medic. They shared with Windel’s wife Michelle how Windel, instead of choosing to escape the battle that fateful day, stayed behind and dragged the wounded to safer ground and treated them.

Windel’s son Gabriel turned 9 years old on Jan. 24, which made the sudden death harder to accept for Michelle, who works at the Cebu City Post Office. He had called her that day to inform her of the dangerous mission.

PO1 Romeo Cempron, based in Zamboanga City as part of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force, wanted to seek reassignment to Cebu province after five years of service in order to be closer to Christine, his wife of three years.

On Facebook, the wife of Romeo’s schoolmate from University of Cebu shared how the slain soldier often rode a bike to school, which was 18 kilometers away from his family’s farm in Barangay Tayud in Consolacion, Cebu province. In the evenings, the post by Michelle Trangia read, Romeo would work as a security guard on the farm in order to support his education, as his father passed away at an early age.

“He was true blue hero since childhood. It must have been his fate to die a HERO,” Michelle posted.

42. Police Officer 1 Mark Lory Orloque Clemencio

Before PO1 Mark Clemencio joined the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF), he worked as an instructor in Tacloban City.

He and his family survived Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) when it ravaged Eastern Visayas in November 2013.

Mark also worked at Adamson University as a teacher before his death.

Originally from Cariaga, Leyte province, Mark was based in Zamboanga City as part of the PNP-SAF. He graduated from Philippine College of Criminology as part of “Mabikas” Class of 2010, to which four others slain belonged: Police Officers 2 Noel Balaca and Rodel Ramacula, and Police Officers 1 Windel Candano and Angel Kodiamat.

The Leyteño’s friends and relatives continue to flood his Facebook account – where he used the name Karlo – with messages of disbelief and prayer. One friend called him “a bright and young star laid to rest”; another friend lamented how their plans to hang out in Manila and visit each other would no longer happen.

43. Police Officer 1 Joseph Gumatay Sagonoy

On Jan. 25, 2015, PO1 Joseph Sagonoy, 26, was seen online on Facebook.

He knew that Joseph was in Mindanao for a mission right after just finishing training. They last spoke via phone call three day earlier before Joseph left for Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Joseph did not reply. Only after James messaged did he get sent via Facebook message an initial list of 41 men – the number has since been raised to 44 – who died in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, on Jan. 25 after 11 hours of fighting. Joseph’s name was No. 28.

“Dong, I really really want to be a commando. I want to be challenged. I want to be in the field,” Joseph had told his brother. And James, wanting the best for his “very hardworking and diligent” brother, stopped schooling so Joseph could pursue his dream.

If James could talk to his brother now, he would tell him how proud he was. “Kung nakikinig ka sa akin ngayon, mahal na mahal kita. Nabuhay ka na isang lider, namatay ka na isang hero (If you’re listening to me now, I love you very much. You lived as a leader, you died as a hero),” he said.

44. Police Officer 1 Oliebeth Ligutan Viernes

PO1 Oliebeth Ligutan Viernes, from Tuguegarao City, had dreams of seeing his wife Virgie sign up for the police force.

It’s a dream that she intends to turn into a reality after his tragic death at the age of 34.

“I would want to assume the position left behind by my husband,” Virgie told the Inquirer.

After graduating from Cagayan College with a degree in BS Criminology, Oliebeth joined the PNP in 2007.

Virgie wrote on Facebook about the many things she will miss about her husband: ““So sad to accept and understand but you believe God has a purpose for us especially (for) our two kids. Tart, remember I will love you always. Madami kming mami-miss sa’yo, yung “Kamusta na ang mag-iina ko? “Kumain n b kayo?” “Magpahinga ka muna, Tart.” “I love u so so much.” You will remain in our hearts forever, Tart.”

MANILA, Philippines—Operatives from the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted a surprise inspecting inside the New Bilibid Prisons early Monday morning as part of its crackdown against illegal drugs inside the facility.

The operatives, together with Justice Secretary Leila De Lima seized illegal drugs and home items such as bath tub and air-conditioning unit, flat screen television, play station, close circuit television (CCTV) and internet sticks inside the national penitentiary.

Also, 19 inmates were plucked out from the Maximum Security compound.

De Lima said they were believed to be behind drug trade inside the prison.

The raid came a week after the signing of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 10575 or the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Modernization Law.

Monday, 23 November6:00a.m. to 7:00a.m.
Journalists gather at the residence of Khadafeh Mangudadatu. He is instructed to be in charge of the journalists joining the filing of the certificate of candidacy (CoC) of his brother, then Buluan Vice Governor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu.

Around 7:00a.m. to 7:30a.m.
Journalists proceed to Toto Mangudadatu’s residence. The convoy supposed to file his CoC is scheduled to leave for the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao at 9 a.m. but is delayed due to security concerns.

7:30a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
The Mangudadatus seek police and military assistance. Toto Mangudadatu in his complaint-affidavit recalls having called up Col. Medardo Geslani and P/Chief Supt. Faisal Ampao Umpa, Regional Director of PNP-ARMM. The military later explained two battalions have just pulled out, and requests for election-related security concerns have to be coursed through either the police or the Comelec, which will then make the request to the military.

9:30a.m.
A convoy of seven vehicles leaves Buluan bound for Sharriff Aguak, the provincial capital. In the convoy are two media vehicles—a Mitsubishi L300 van owned by UNTV, and a Pajero owned by dzRH reporter Henry Araneta; four Toyota vans owned by the Mangudadatus; and a tailing Toyota vehicle.

10:00a.m.
The Mangudadatu convoy passes through a checkpoint at Brgy Masalay, Ampatuan, Maguindanao from Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat. The convoy of at least five vehicles is flagged down by then-undetermined number of fully armed men.

Sworn affidavits of police officers manning the checkpoint narrate how the convoy has been ordered to stop for routine inspection when a group of around 200 men appear and accost the vehicles.

Photo from the National Union of Journalists

PO1 Hernanie Decipulo, a policeman manning one of the checkpoints, narrates in his sworn statement:

“Around 10:00 am of Nov. 23, a Tamaraw FX, a red Vios, a light Pajero and four Hi-Ace vans were flagged down at the checkpoint.

“After being flagged down, Andal Ampatuan Jr. and his armed men, riding in at least 10 vehicles, arrived. Andal Ampatuan Jr. had at least 100 men with him.

“Then, the armed men took charge of the seven waylaid vehicles. They ordered my fellow policemen to step aside.

“CVOs and CAFGUs alighted from the vehicles and went to the waylaid cars. They took from the victims their personal belongings including cellphones, ordered them to get off their vehicles and to lie down on the ground.

”They were asked to get back to the vehicles. Some of Andal Ampatuan Jr.’s men drove the waylaid vehicles en route to Ampatuan town.”

Photo by Dennis Jay Santos / INQUIRER Mindanao NOVEMBER 22, 2012

A yellow Komatsu backhoe is seen to stand at a hilly portion of Brgy, Salman. Written on the backhoe are the words “Property of the province of Maguindanao – Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan Sr.” The backhoe is used to dig three mass graves.

10:30a.m. to 11a.m.
A series of gunfire shots reportedly erupt at Brgy. Saniag, the area where the reportedly abducted vehicles are said to be brought (Napolcom report, Dec. 7, 2009)

In his sworn statement dated Dec. 7, 2009, witness and private army member Kenny Dalandag recalls seeing victim Bai Genalyn (Gigi) Mangudadatu who is the wife of Toto Mangudadatu.

Photo by Rem Zamora / Philippine Daily Inquirer NOVEMBER 25, 2009

“Andal Ampatuan Jr. opened the car that carried Bai Gigi Mangudadatu and pulled her out of the car. I saw Bai Gigi talking with someone over her cellphone. Andal Ampatuan Jr. slapped her and her phone dropped.

“We brought the Mangudadatu convoy to the inner portion of Brgy. Salman. Andal Ampatuan Jr. ordered everyone in the convoy to get off their vehicles, then he and my fellow armed men fired shots at them. Andal Ampatuan Jr. and his men repeatedly shot Bai Gigi until she died.

Photo by Jeoffrey Maitem / INQUIRER Mindanao NOVEMBER 24, 2009

11a.m.
Information received by the 601st Infantry Brigade (IB) states that five civilian vehicles were waylaid at Brgy. Salman. Brigade chief Col. Medardo Geslani, instructs the 64th Infantry Battalion to conduct operations to rescue the abducted persons.

1:00p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
64IB forces arrive at Brgy. Masalay and coordinate with Chief Inspector Sukarno Dicay of 15th Regional Mobile Group who is conducting a checkpoint there. Dicay says his group has no knowledge of the alleged abduction.

2:50p.m.
Troops see six vehicles along the trail after driving along the highway at Brgy. Salman. Suspecting these may be the missing vehicles they immediately head toward the site.

Photo by Rem Zamora / Philippine Daily Inquirer NOVEMBER 25, 2009

3:00p.m.
The gunmen apparently learn Army units are approaching. They hurriedly flee before the soldiers arrive.

Twenty-one persons are initially found dead inside and outside vehicles. The victims are discovered to have borne multiple gunshot wounds.

Five vehicles are also found in the area and one backhoe. Various personal items, assorted empty shells and other documents are also recovered at the site.

Photo by Rem Zamora / Philippine Daily Inquirer NOVEMBER 25, 2009

There are three grave sites. A total of 35 bodies are found in the graves. The first grave has 24 bodies, including Genalyn, Eden and Farina Mangudadatu. In the second grave are six bodies, and in grave three, five bodies. Some of the vehicles that carry the members of the convoy and civilians who are not part of the convoy are also found buried.

Photo by Rem Zamora / Philippine Daily Inquirer NOVEMBER 25, 2009

Source: National Union of Journalists of the Philippines

]]>0jneryhttp://www.inquirer.net/?p=1426832014-11-12T03:27:56Z2014-11-12T03:27:56ZThe other pair of images Pope Francis uses to describe the Church, in the passage entitled “A mother with an open heart,” involves the idea of being out in the world, rather than being confined to sacristy or convent. “Here I repeat for the entire Church what I have often said to the priests and laity of Buenos Aires: I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.”

This remarkable reminder comes right after the paragraph where the Pope speaks of the people the Church should first minister to. “But to whom should she go first? When we read the Gospel we find a clear indication: not so much our friends and wealthy neighbours, but above all the poor and the sick, those who are usually despised and overlooked, ‘those who cannot repay you’ (Lk 14:14).” He adds, for good measure: “We have to state, without mincing words, that there is an inseparable bond between our faith and the poor. May we never abandon them.”

So the idea, the image, of a Church “bruised, hurting and dirty” emerges out of that “clear indication,” that “inseparable bond,” that conviction, as Benedict XVI phrased it, that “the poor are the privileged recipients of the Gospel.”

The opposite of the dirty Church—dirty because it has been out on the streets, among the poor—is the pale, wan Church, cooped up inside the kumbento, content with the status quo. Part of the reason Pope Francis has embraced the new evangelization is the need to end this scandal of complacency. “If something should rightly disturb us and trouble our consciences, it is the fact that so many of our brothers and sisters are living without the strength, light and consolation born of friendship with Jesus Christ, without a community of faith to support them, without meaning and a goal in life.”

An open-door Church, a bruised and dirty Church—that is the community of faith they need.

]]>0jneryhttp://www.inquirer.net/?p=1426812014-11-12T03:05:18Z2014-11-12T03:05:18ZIn a short series of four paragraphs, given the title “A mother with an open heart,” Pope Francis offers two pairs of images—twinned descriptions, one positive, one negative, of Mother Church. The first pairing revolves around the idea of openness.

“The Church is called to be the house of the Father, with doors always wide open. One concrete sign of such openness is that our church doors should always be open, so that if someone, moved by the Spirit, comes there looking for God, he or she will not find a closed door.” How true is this of the churches in the Philippines? A parishioner is blessed indeed if her parish church keeps a small door open even at night. But the Pope is also speaking of openness in the figurative sense. “There are other doors that should not be closed either. Everyone can share in some way in the life of the Church; everyone can be part of the community, nor should the doors of the sacraments be closed for simply any reason.”

In Pope Francis’ view, the opposite of this welcoming image of the Church is—surprisingly—not the locked door, but the turnstile, the revolving door that moves only if you put a coin in it. “But the Church is not a tollhouse; it is the house of the Father, where there is a place for everyone, with all their problems.” The context of this image is a sobering reflection born of his pastoral experience. “Frequently, we act as arbiters of grace rather than its facilitators.”

Arbiters of grace: What an indictment of tollhouse Christians! We can do better. We can “facilitate” grace in part by behaving “like the father of the prodigal son, who always keeps his door open so that when the son returns, he can readily pass through it.”